2013 Hyundai Santa Fe: recalls and problems
7 recalls and 810 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.
Check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA straight away and follow the instructions in the notice.
Most common problems
What owners report
Abs light came on after getting engine recall fixed; as well as the brake light, traction control light, and downhill light thing. have been waiting on a fix. went to go get it fixed last year when i was notified via mail. abs light is still on dash as well as traction warning light. down hill light. and sometimes the check engine light. oh and now all of my door sensor things stay on no matter what. and to top it of
Door latch closed indicator failure. available for inspection (yes) the door may or may not be closed properly because the indicator shows always open. this is a safety risk because if the doors are opened while driving and the driver would not have the designed warning. has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? (no) has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manu
Nhtsa safety & campaign non-compliance complaint (vin: [xxx] | hyundai case #xxx): on xxx, my 2013 hyundai santa fe sport 2.4l theta ii gdi (covered by hyundai warranty extension txxi limited lifetime warranty under tsb 22-em-001h-1 / nhtsa mc-10211673-0001 and service campaign t3g / nhtsa [xxx]) entered engine protection mode (limp mode) with flashing check engine light / dtc p1326 and a severe metallic connecting-
While driving my engine seized up and my car completely stopped. i was luckily able to coast it to the side of the highway without getting into an accident. i had it towed to go hyundai in [xxx]. the did the diagnostic, found it was covered by the recall and allegedly ordered the engine. the engine is apparently on back order and has to come from [xxx]. they are dragging their feet in providing me with alternative tr
Crash-test ratings
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV AWD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
| 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV FWD | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated | Not rated |
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering SANTA FE, SANTA FE SPORT. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.